Prologue

Yokohama High School, Class 7, Third Year.

Standing at the podium was the homeroom teacher, Shizuka Hayami, a tall woman with striking looks. Her voice carried warmly through the room.

"Students, the talent awakening ceremony is about to begin. I know many of you are nervous, and honestly, so am I. After all, you're my very first class, and this is my first time overseeing a talent test."

Shizuka placed a hand to her chest, her gesture catching the attention of several of the boys.

"But don't be too anxious. I've been through this myself. Some people never awakened any talent, and they're still leading great lives."

Switching her tone to a more playful one, she added, "Of course, I'd love for as many of you as possible to awaken unique talents. After all, the more talents awakened, the higher my bonus, and I'd get a nice boost to my own training resources too! Who knows, maybe I'll stand at the top of humanity one day and proudly thank you all for getting me there!"

This realistic comment made the class laugh, easing the tension.

Seated in the back, Ryuji smiled, feeling calm despite the significance of the event.

After all, nothing could be more intense than waking up in a different world.

Three years ago, Ryuji had traveled to this world, expecting a system like those in every transmigration novel he'd read, to help him climb to greatness. Unfortunately, no such thing had appeared.

Some systems were like slow-cooked meals, while others were instant noodles, ready in moments.

Ryuji's case? Acceptance in thirty seconds.

Though system-less, he still had a shot. This world was vastly different from his original one—not only was it thousands of times larger, but it was also full of monsters.

Here, talent awakening in the third year of high school was essential. Without it, survival was a challenge. Only with talent could one defend themselves, enter dangerous realms, defeat monsters, earn spirit orbs, and build strength.